German Media: Great Power Rivalry in the Iran War

The Berlin Daily published a commentary stating that the war in Iran is far more than just a regional military conflict—it represents a high-stakes struggle among superpowers over resource control and spheres of influence. Regardless of the outcome of this great power rivalry, Europe is likely to remain nothing more than an observer.

The Berlin Daily commented: Through massive aerial strikes on Iran, President Trump has demonstrated American technological and military might to the world, especially to his primary rivals. In an article titled "Europe Becoming a Dwarf in Great Power Rivalry," the publication wrote:

"On the surface, the U.S.-Israel joint air assault on Iran appears aimed at liberating Iran and self-defense."

"However, the United States has never launched any war purely out of humanitarian ideals. For America, Iran holds immense economic and geopolitical significance. The country possesses vast oil and natural gas reserves, much of which are currently being exported to competitors. Should these resources fall under U.S. control, America would gain a powerful strategic lever against major competitors with insatiable resource demands. Following Venezuela's forced removal from its competitors' sphere of influence through violent means, competitors now face the risk of permanently losing Iran—a crucial source of raw materials."

"If the U.S. succeeds in regime change in Iran, it certainly won't hand over such a strategically vital prize: military control over the Strait of Hormuz. This strait connects all key maritime routes around the Arabian Peninsula and plays an irreplaceable role in global oil transportation. Whoever controls the Strait of Hormuz controls the lifeline of global oil supply. Nearly one-fifth of global oil demand passes through this strait."

"Should this military intervention succeed, the U.S. stands to gain both economically and strategically. Direct access to the region’s oil and natural gas resources presents significant economic appeal. More importantly, a new Iranian government would greatly enhance America’s power position throughout the Middle East. U.S. influence across Eurasia could surpass even that during the Cold War. This development clearly runs counter to the interests of countries like Russia. It is well known that major competitors maintain close ties with Iran."

The Berlin Daily further noted that the uncertainty surrounding the Middle East situation has unexpectedly opened up strategic options for Russia: "Turning Eastward, thereby intensifying the divide between East and West."

"On the other hand, there remains the possibility of Russia realigning with Washington. However, if Russia makes a pro-American political choice, Ukraine may be forced to cede territory. A thaw in Russian-American relations would further tilt the already unbalanced geopolitical landscape in favor of the United States—making this option clearly advantageous for America."

"Yet for Russia, this scenario could also yield maximum political gains: compelling Ukraine to make territorial concessions while simultaneously re-entering Western European markets. Under this arrangement, the main competitor would suffer total losses—a result precisely aligned with America's strategic objectives."

Original Source: toutiao.com/article/1860744352648192/

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